2008 Chevrolet Impala vs. 2003 Nissan 350Z
To start off, 2008 Chevrolet Impala is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Nissan 350Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Nissan 350Z would be higher. At 5,670 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Chevrolet Impala is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Chevrolet Impala (303 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 2003 Nissan 350Z. (283 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chevrolet Impala should accelerate faster than 2003 Nissan 350Z.
Because 2003 Nissan 350Z is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2003 Nissan 350Z. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Chevrolet Impala, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2008 Chevrolet Impala (438 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Nissan 350Z. (371 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2008 Chevrolet Impala will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Nissan 350Z. 2008 Chevrolet Impala has automatic transmission and 2003 Nissan 350Z has manual transmission. 2003 Nissan 350Z will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Chevrolet Impala will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chevrolet Impala | 2003 Nissan 350Z | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Nissan |
| Model | Impala | 350Z |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5670 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 303 HP | 283 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 438 Nm | 371 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 73 L |
